Net Nanny 6.0

Real-time content-based Web filtering, even in HTTPS. Can record all IMs and send an alert on problem conversations. ESRB-based game filtering. Interactive reports. E-mail alerts. Full remote management. Internet time scheduler now allows override.

Cons

New social-networking monitor is limited. More expensive than the competition for multi-PC households. Time-scheduler overrides not logged.

Bottom Line

Net Nanny does everything a parental-control utility should do. It also offers unique features like secure Web-traffic filtering and ESRB-based game control. Balancing privacy and security, it can record IM conversations only if they seem dangerous. E-mail alerts and full remote configuration let you manage wherever you are. Net Nanny remains our Editors' Choice for parental control.

Neil Rubenking served as vice president and president of the San Francisco PC User Group for three years when the IBM PC was brand new. He was present at the formation of the Association of Shareware Professionals, and served on its board of directors. In 1986, PC Magazine brought Neil on board to handle the torrent of Turbo Pascal tips submitted by readers. By 1990, he had become PC Magazine's technical editor, and a coast-to-coast telecommuter. His "User to User" column supplied readers with tips...
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